Kids and Cats Reading Program

Some kids and cats in Berks County, Pennsylvania are helping each other out.

The kids are reading aloud to the cats to improve their skills in front of an easygoing audience and the cats get some company and soothing entertainment. It's part of the "Book Buddies" program which allows kids from grades one-through-eight to read to sheltered cats in the adoption room. Shelter officials say the rhythmic sound of a voice soothes the cats.

Kristi Rodriguez got the idea for "Book Buddies" from a shelter out west and says it's a perfect fit.

Seven-year-old Colby has struggled with reading but his mom says each day he's getting better after spending time at the Animal Rescue League.

After reading an entire book, Colby emerges from the cat colony feeling encouraged and covered in hair. He says he loves cats and the company they provide with no pressure or criticism about his reading. Colby even finds it hard to put down a book when he gets home.

The program brings in 30 to 40 kids a month and some come several times a week. The program is proving to be a success.

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